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Showing 220 results for Type of Study: Research, Original, Regular

Zahra Morovaty Pour Ghalhe Sheykhy, Hamid Fadaie,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

On the slopes of Mount Rahmat, located in the southern section of the Throne of Persepolis, between it and the unfinished tomb attributed to Darius III, lies a complex of structures architecturally similar to those situated on the throne itself, sharing the same axis with a deviation of 20 to 25 degrees westward. This complex, known as the Barzan-e Jonoobi, comprises eight separate structures interconnected by designed pathways and corridors and generally features columned halls and porticos. The measures taken to address various climatic challenges in this area, such as managing the slope of the land,
controlling floods from the mountains, establishing order in the form and structures, access routes, and passageways, as well as architectural and urban design elements, reflect the application of urban planning and design knowledge in its development. Unfortunately, after initial excavation and a few preliminary conservation efforts, the structures in the Barzan-e Jonoobi site have been left unattended. The predominant material used in this area is Mudbrick, and the lack of ongoing maintenance has led to the deterioration and decay of these mudbrick structures. The inherently unstable nature of these mud brick structures highlights the importance and necessity of continuous preservation and maintenance of this valuable site. Therefore, in this study, after examining the factors causing damage, a conservation plan was proposed within the framework of a comprehensive protection plan. This plan aims to reduce the rate of erosion and address the damages caused by the identified harmful factors. The research methodology employed in this article is applied and field-based in terms of its purpose and approach, and the data were analyzed qualitatively based on logical reasoning. Data collection tools included library research (note-taking, maps, sketches) and field methods (observations, interviews, photography).

Saeid Mehriar, Abdolalizade Abdolalizade, Zahra Talischianazar, Mehdi Razani,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

The preservation and restoration of historical monuments are among the most crucial objectives worldwide, aiming to pass cultural heritage on to future generations. These efforts encompass a wide range of activities carried out by specialists while adhering to various aspects, including the theoretical principles of historical restoration. The Sadiq Al Saltaneh Mansion, located in the Maqsoudiyeh neighborhood of Tabriz, is one of the notable buildings from the Qajar period. In addition to its unique architectural layout, the mansion features stucco decorations on the columns and fireplaces. During the restoration process, evidence from various historical periods was uncovered, highlighting the alterations the building has undergone over time. A significant challenge arose when a historical fireplace in the northwest room of the mansion,s first floor was discovered, along with a stuccoed wall dating back to the late Safavid and early Zand periods hidden behind it. This presented a dilemma regarding how to display both significant historical features. After thorough examination of the site and assessment of the artifacts, it was decided to relocate the fireplace within its original space. The goal was to enhance the understanding of the building and to better showcase both valuable historical elements. Given the historical significance and aesthetic value of both features, the relocation of the fireplace and the subsequent exposure of the historical wall behind it were deemed necessary. The technical process of relocation involved framing and supporting the fireplace, followed by carefully detaching it from the wall according to a pre-designed method. After securing the artifact with an iron frame and clearing the surrounding area, the connection to the wall was severed step by step, with reinforcement measures implemented throughout the procedure. The fireplace was then moved to its new location using a crane and installed in such a way that both features could be fully observed. It should be noted that all actions were planned and carried out based on technical and theoretical principles of historical
monument restoration.

Sanaz Aliakbari, Alireza Koochakzaei,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

Lacquer paintings hold not only historical significance but also aesthetic value. The motifs and materials used in these artworks can vary depending on the cultural context of the society. Examining these types of works can provide valuable insights into the culture, economy, technology, and native materials of different ethnic groups. Lacquered paintings are considered highly valuable and require careful conservation measures. The purpose of this report is to present the protective process carried out on a lacquered bookbinding from the Qajar era. The initial investigation revealed the need for consolidation, separation of the leather from the bookbinding, surface cleaning, patching, restoration of the corners, priming, coloring, and final coating. To achieve this, the following materials and methods were employed: 5% Plextol for consolidation, a mixture of tissue paper pulp with gelatin and marble dust as a putty to restore the corners, a combination of HV360 adhesive with distilled water and marble dust for the primer layer, acrylic paint for coloring, and a final 3% polyvinyl butyral layer for further protection of the paint layers.

Morteza Rezvanfar,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

Caucasus is the region between the Caspian and Black seas. The Caucasus Mountains divide it into northern and southern parts. The North Caucasus is a part of Russia where has seven autonomous republics and two krais. From the east, the republics are: 1- Dagestan, 2- Chechnya, 3- Ingushetia, 4- North Ossetia, 5- Kabardino-Balkaria, 6- , Karachay-Cherkessia, and 7- Adygea, and the krais are Krasnodar Krai and Stavropol Krai. South Caucasus also includes 3 countries, the Republic of Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia. This text describes a research trip to Derbent, Dagestan. The goal was to find and prepare identity card from Persian inscriptions and some buildings with inscriptions in this city. Derbent is a small coastal city that was separated from Iran by the Golestan Treaty. This city has 150 registered artifacts and about 100 Persian inscriptions (Pahlavi and Dari Persian) from the Sassanid, Safavid, and Qajar periods. Juma Mosque in Derbend, after Narin Castle and Hesar, is the most important heritage work in the city of Derbend, which has always been
the focus of regional governments, so it has valuable inscriptions from the Mongol, Turkish, Arab and Iranian governments. The mosque's 1330-year-old age, as well as its architectural style, were the criteria for registering this valuable work under the Derbend World File in UNESCO.

Faramarz Rostami Charati, Parastoo Erfanmenesh, Fathollah Niyazi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

 In this research, the chemical and antimicrobial analysis of the essential oil extracted from coal smoke was investigated. The operation of collecting wood vinegar by condensing the smoke exhaust gases resulting from pyrolysis of citrus and lemon trees in the coal production process in the north of the country was carried out in three stages. By performing the necessary chemical analyzes on these extractive materials, the presence of various organic compounds such as saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons and aromatic compounds is visible. At the end, checking the anti-micron effects of these extracted substances with samples of fungi and bacteria available in the laboratory has been tested initially. The use of plant compounds, especially plant extracts, is one of the most promising alternatives to chemical pesticides. Plant extracts have a wide range of secondary metabolites that play an important role in plant-pest interactions. which due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties can be considered a suitable alternative in the field of agricultural food and medicine. They are produced from plant or microbial sources that have less risks for the environment and human health and can be used in two ways. The use of natural pesticides as an environmentally friendly approach in preserving cultural heritage can be considered as an innovation in this field. be considered Essential oils such as peppermint oil, rosemary oil and other oils with antimicrobial and sunscreen properties can be used to preserve cultural works against the growth of microbes and insect spawning. It is important that when using natural pesticides to preserve cultural works, it is important to be careful and know the characteristics of each substance and how to use them correctly to ensure of prevent any damage to cultural historical monuments. The wood species considered for the preparation of vinegar was lemon tree from the north of the country. The organic solvents used in the extraction process were dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, diethyl chloroform, and THF, which were obtained from the Indian company
Loba Chem. The devices used in this research are NMR, FTIRGC-Mass and TLC.
Microbial tests are performed with two types of strains. The fungus was Spexillus niger and Penicillium. In this experiment, the pyrolysis process of lemon tree wood has been tested in the coal production furnace in the north of the country. During the entire production process, a batch of production was carried out in a controlled manner. The wood was collected with three different cuts. The first cut was watery and transparent, which was not the target of the study. The middle cut was the target composition that was collected. It is mainly composed of organic materials and its investigation is not included in this project. The composition of the red colored liquid of the wood extracted from the middle section was transferred to the laboratory in the next step with organic solvents such as dichloromethane and other pairs of organic solvents into two phases. Aqueous and organic were purified and separated. After that each of the extracted phases have been subjected to necessary chemical and microbial analyses. The use of extractive materials of natural compounds is of particular importance due to its environmental friendliness. Essential oils and plant extracts can be used as natural and safe pesticides. Since ancient
times, producing charcoal from wood as a heat source has been a very common method. However, the extraction and burning of coal smoke has not been addressed until many applications of coal smoke have been reported in the present era. The use of essential oil from coal smoke in agricultural industries is also possible because it can be used as a fertilizer due to the rich source of organic carbon. However, in many articles, this essential oil has been mentioned as a control agent for biological and anti-fungal and bacterial agents. Based on this, the current research has been designed to extract aromatic and essential oils with a natural base, especially from waste materials such as charcoal smoke, which is a valuable branch in the direction of extracting and using biocompatible materials to control fungal and microbial factors in the field of heritage. Based on the investigations and the results of chemical and analytical analyzes as well as microbial tests, the targeted essential oil (from lemon tree charcoal) has aliphatic and aromatic compounds that are effective
in controlling microbial agents. The effectiveness of this test is different for different types of wood and different microbial strains. Depending on the concentration of the extracted smoke sample, different results will be output. It is likely that charcoal essential oil is more effective at higher concentrations and should be tested.

Fatemeh Alimirzaei,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

In this report we wanted to remind parts of principles and methods of conservation and restoration of pottery objects, and to present reconstruction process of two large pottery Jar (Khomreh) belong to Sassanian period during a written and illustrated report. also, we explained the difference created when choosing materials and methods. The jars were obtained from excavating Varamin Plain by Dr. Morteza Hesari in 2017. They were restored at the conservation pottery workshop of the Research Institute of Cultural Heritage & Tourism Research center for conservation and restoration of relics (RCCCR).

Sayede Elahe Alavi Dehkordi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

The "Illustrated Atlas of Pathology of Historical-Cultural Textiles" by Fatemeh Alimirzaei and Shahrzad Aminshirazi is specially designed for conservators,
restorers, students, museum curators, and collectors handling different categories of textiles. The book is divided into three chapters, addressing the pathology of historical textiles from three perspectives: physical-mechanical, chemical, and photochemical. However, the distinction of photochemical from chemical is rejected as unjustified since photochemical reactions are a subtype of chemical reactions induced by photons. A more suitable third type could be biological effects, which involve harm inflicted with the help of living organisms, including microbes, rodents, and insects.

Nasrin Noohi Babajan, Farah Madani, Manijeh Hadian Dehkordi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

Valuable cultural heritage is always exposed to the invasion of biological agents and the resulting destruction, especially when the physical and chemical conditions of the work and its surrounding environment are compatible with the characteristics of an organism or a microorganism. Therefore, preventing the occurrence of such conditions and limiting the invasion of biological agents should be among the main and primary goals of every center. Over the years, various methods such as the use of disinfectants have been used to control biological agents in various historical and cultural collections. With the passage of time and increasing awareness of the harmful effects of these substances on the treated works, the environment and the users, nowadays the use of non-toxic alternative methods is more recommended. Experience has shown that the method that causes the least damage to collections and employees is preventive methods and regular control, which is possible through monitoring and managing the environment. Integrated pest management with the ultimate goal of removing harmful biological agents from a place is one of the long-term preventives and non-toxic methods of controlling biological agents that is used in many museums, archives, and libraries. In this article, along with a brief overview of biological deterioration and its preventive and control strategies, microbiological monitoring of the air inside 4 storerooms in the world heritage complex of Golestan Palace Museum including: the anthropological clothing, the manuscripts, the carpets, and the Painting storerooms was carried out. For this purpose, air sampling was done by sedimentation method and isolated microbial colonies on the culture media were investigated and identified. The results of the microbiological monitoring of the air inside the storerooms in this study showed that except for the carpet storeroom, other studied storerooms, including the anthropological clothing, the manuscript and the painting storerooms, are acceptable in terms of the number of microorganisms in the air.

Masoome Amighpey, Fatemeh Ghoraiyan, Akram Molayi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

Antiquities and cultural heritage are the birth certificates of any country. Since the ancient works define any land's age, history, and civilization, it is necessary to protect cultural historical works by combining science and art. Iran is one of the first in the world to have ancient monuments and historical and cultural buildings and has the oldest culture and civilization. Climate changes around the world and their consequences in the form of continuous droughts, water shortages, and seasonal floods have cast a shadow on the country's cultural heritage in the past few years. One of the consequences of
climate change has been water scarcity and pressure on underground water resources. The lack of management of underground water resources and their indiscriminate extraction has caused widespread subsidence in the world and Iran. On the one hand, subsidence is considered an environmental threat that destroys the aquifer and soil, and on the other hand, it destroys the buildings and structures located in the place. Many subsidence has spread to urban areas and caused destruction and damage to ancient monuments. Geodetic data and methods such as radar interferometry, GPS data, accurate leveling
observations, and gravimeters are used to diagnose and monitor the areas affected by the risk of subsidence. Radar interferometry with wide coverage and high spatial resolution, along with GPS with high temporal resolution, as well as accurate leveling observations and high-precision gravimeters, can be a suitable source for changing the shape of the earth's surface in the region. GonbadKavos Tower, the tallest brick tower in the world, is one of the most important ancient monuments of Iran in Golestan province. Considering the importance of protecting ancient and historical monuments, it is important to investigate the amount of subsidence of the Gorgan Plain in the area of this tower to evaluate its effect on the shape of the tower.
To investigate the area and extent of subsidence of Gorgan Plain, the integration of geodetic observations in the region, including radar interferometry, leveling, and GPS was used. To investigate the subsidence range of this province, 53 sensor radar images were obtained from the Sentinel-1 satellite from the European Space Center between July 2017 and June 2019. The results show that due to the lack of management of the process of extracting  underground water sources in the Gorgan Plain, unfortunately, this plain has experienced extensive land surface subsidence with a maximum rate of 22 cm per year. One of the sensitive structures located in the subsidence area of the Gorgan Plain is the Gonbad Kavos Tower. The rate of subsidence in the area of this tower is 6 cm per year. Also, the changes in the subsidence rate in the area of the tower and its surroundings are significant. To preserve and maintain this tower, the need to use methods of strengthening the structure in this historical work is something that should be taken into consideration.
On the other hand, it is suggested to manage the use of underground water resources in the Gorgan Plain, modify the cultivation pattern to prohibit the cultivation of water-rich crops in agriculture, and artificially feed the aquifer to stop subsidence in the Gorgan region. It is also suggested to use micro geodesy observations and calculations to investigate and monitor the shape change of this historical tower.
 
Moein Poursadegh, Mohsen Mohamadi Achacheloei,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

In this research, considering the necessity of conservation and restoration of wooden doors and their significance in Iranian architecture, as well as understanding the structure of historical wooden artifacts, necessary actions were taken to study, restore, and conserve a two-leaf wooden door belonging to the ivan of Sukiass house in Isfahan. Following preliminary damage assessment, various tests (including pH testing, colorimetry, equilibrium moisture content measurement, species identification, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) were conducted on the study sample. The results indicated the acidic nature of the structure of the sample under study, minimal color changes before and after the restoration process, standard equilibrium moisture content, the use of Oriental Plane tree wood (Platanus orientalis L) in the construction of the artifact, and the absence of significant structural damage on the sample surface. Historical wooden artifacts are typically classified into three main categories of physical, chemical, and biological damages. The study sample exhibited physical damages such as abrasion, cracking, and microcracks, environmental temperature effects resulting in color changes on the artifact,s surface, as well as the impacts of dust and debris. In the chemical damage category, tissue acidification in the artifact was observed, along with noticeable impacts of pollution. Biological damages caused by insect infestations, categorized under wood biological damages, were visible as multiple
boreholes on the artifact,s surface. Additionally, the presence of a burnt section at the lower part of one of the door leaves is another damage incurred by the study artifact. In line with conservation and aesthetic principles, necessary measures include cleaning the door and its frame, addressing deficiencies and cracks, protecting the artifact from pests, and applying polish and acid treatment.

Fatemeh Alimirzaei, Samad Samanian,
Volume 6, Issue 4 (3-2024)
Abstract

The conservation of historical artifacts, as a profession that closely linked to the prevailing history and culture in individual and social life, carries a heavy mission and responsibility towards the creators and owners of these artifacts in the past, present, and future. On the other hand, despite the diversity of thoughts, desires, and approaches, it is an activity that must be conducted within a specific scientific and theoretical framework. Conservators, while adhering to this specified framework, must also consider particular ethical considerations. These considerations are crucial not only for maintaining the quality and clarity of conservation activities for the conservators and their audience but also for making them aware of the ethical consequences of their actions and the ethical standards used to evaluate those actions. These ethical considerations have been variously addressed in the theories and documents related to the conservation and restoration field as the profession has evolved. In this research, an attempt is made to provide definitions and basic concepts related to the topic, alongside examples of ethical codes in the conservation profession with an interpretive approach. The aim of this research is to understand the role and function of ethics in conservation and restoration processes and some ethical considerations when dealing with artifacts. To this end, To this end, ethical conduct documents prepared by several conservation institutions, such as the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), the Canadian Association for Conservation (CAC), the International Council of Museums Committee for Conservation (ICOM-CC), the European Confederation of Conservator-Restorers' Organisations (ECCO), and the United Kingdom Institute for Conservation (UKIC), have been examined as case studies. The reviews revealed that these documents strive to define the boundaries of professional conservation, with the primary goal of protecting public assets and gaining public trust and social approval for the profession. Therefore, they focus on the interests of humanity rather than professional interests and develop conservation ethics based on attention to universal values and a focus on cultural values.

Habib Meshkinfam Fard, Mohammad Hassan Talebian,
Volume 7, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract

The structure of Persepolis is subjected to various factors that cause erosion and decay due to moisture. The cement mortars used in past restorations are one of the challenges in preserving this grand stone monument. Over time, these mortars, due to higher water absorption than the stone, have exacerbated the destructive effects of moisture, causing serious but gradual and irreversible damage. Since removing these mortars and replacing the past restorative measures to improve the current situation is extremely difficult and may have damaging consequences for these valuable artifacts, this research aims to evaluate the impact of nano waterproof coatings on reducing the moisture absorption of the used cement mortars through comprehensive studies on the current state of these monuments and the restorations carried out with cement. Therefore, this research aims  to provide a suitable solution without needing to remove the cement mortar and with minimal intervention to protect these artifacts. This study employs an experimental research method and considers theoretical concepts within laboratory studies. In this process, two types of Iranian and foreign nano waterproof coatings named  Zycosil Max and FarazSil were applied on similar cement mortar samples, and their permeability and water absorption were evaluated using water absorption percentage and capillarity tests. The results showed that both waterproof coatings effectively reduced the cement mortar's water absorption. Zycosil Max, with a performance of 60.5%, and Faraz Sil, with a performance of 48.02%, significantly reduced the water absorption of the cement mortar, with  Zycosil Max showing better performance than FarazSil. However, considering that the water absorption percentage did not reach close to that of the stone samples of Persepolis and the more than tenfold difference in water absorption percentage, none of the studied materials are recommended for waterproofing the cement mortar used in the restoration of the Persepolis monument.

Yaser Shahbazi , Najmeh Faghih Dinevari,
Volume 7, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract

This research aims to propose a suitable solution for covering the roof of the Sadaqiani Bath. The Sadaqiani Bath is located on the campus of the Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning at Tabriz Islamic Art University. During the construction of a new building, remnants of an ancient structure were uncovered, leading to archaeological excavations. This bath, dating back to the Qajar period, has been officially registered as a historical site. Due to its lower elevation compared to the surrounding area, the bath required a protective cover to prevent rainwater infiltration and provide adequate shielding from sunlight. In line with the university's academic policies in architectural technology, efforts were made to design and construct a cover using innovative technologies, aiming to establish a successful and exemplary standard in this field. To address these requirements, an arc-shaped lamella structure with a fabric cover was chosen. This structure not only offers protection against weather conditions but also harmonizes with the existing buildings on the site, including the bath. It is lightweight and provides sufficient support to minimize potential damage to the main structure. With the assistance of architectural technology students from the faculty, research and design efforts were carried out, and the cover for the Sadaqiani Bath was successfully constructed, with the necessary funding provided.

Fatemeh Shervani Tabar , Ahad Nejad Ebrahimi, M. R. Chenaghlou ,
Volume 7, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract

Karbandi is an arched structural element used for roof coverings in the historical architecture of Iran, distinguished by its high functional and formal capacity, simultaneously serving both structural and decorative purposes. The aim of this study is to answer the following questions: What trajectory has the formation process of Karbandi followed? What are the influential factors in this process and in its evolution into existing types? This qualitative research employs both fieldwork and library-based methods to collect data, which are then analyzed and evaluated. Initially, the gradual transition of common structural systems in historical Iranian architecture towards Karbandi was examined. The concept of Karbandi was also reviewed from the perspectives of various researchers to select the most precise definition. Subsequently, the key concepts related to Karbandi were identified and categorized. Karbandi is formed by narrow arches with chord-based and harmonious geometries, serving both load-bearing and decorative roles. Its primary characteristics include chordal geometry, orderly connections, the layered alignment of main points, and its construction based on a circular framework. The structural components of Karbandi can be analyzed through two aspects: theoretical geometry and practical geometry. It is important to note that the relationship between these two geometries is interactive and reciprocal, with some shared elements. Each of these components has influenced the formation process of this arched element while undergoing changes themselves throughout this process.

Davoud Agha-Aligol, Mohammad Lamehi-Rachti, Mahmoud Moradi, Melika Yazdani, Seyed Mohammad Amin Emami ,
Volume 7, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract

The measurement of the elemental composition of historical pottery is of particular importance. By examining the elemental composition of the body and glaze of historical pottery, one can obtain valuable information regarding the determination of raw materials and their diversity, as well as techniques employed in the manufacturing of these historical objects. In this research, 12 samples of the mina'i pottery from Alamut Castle, dating back to the 11th to 13th centuries AD, have been studied using ion beam analysis techniques. In this study, the elemental composition of the body, various pigments used in the paintings, and also the baseglaze have been measured using the micro-PIXE. Additionally, the thickness of the gold layer applied on the surfaces of some of these potteries has also been studied using the micro-RBS method. The purpose of conducting this research is to provide appropriate answers to the following questions: What raw materials have been used in the manufacturing of the body and glaze of these objects? What sources have supplied the raw materials used as fluxes? Also, what coloring agents and elements have been used to create different colors in the baseglaze and decorative paintings? Measuring the thickness of the gold layer used in these decorations is also one of the goals of this research work. Based on the results obtained from the elemental composition of the body and glaze of these potteries, it can be concluded that different sources of silica and fluxes have been used in the manufacturing of Alamut Castle mina'i potteries. Also, the coloring agents in producing red, white, blue, and turquoise pigments have been identified as Fe, Sn, Co and Cu elements, respectively. Moreover, the micro-RBS shows that the thickness of the gold layer used in decorations varies from 300 to 800 nanometers in the samples.

 
Tahereh Hajizadeh , Hamidreza Bakhshandehfard, Mohsen Mohammadi Achachlouyi ,
Volume 7, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract

Puppets are one of the elements of performing arts, which were used by puppeteers to perform shows since ancient times. Today, these works are known as valuable historical, cultural and artistic heritage. The Kashan Puppet and Toy Museum keeps one of the oldest collections of puppets that contain valuable historical, artistic and technical information. In this article, due to the importance of knowing the materials and manufacturing techniques, and the aesthetic features of these works, the study conducted on a sample of historical doll "Furash" from the mentioned museum has been studied by performing comparative studies and laboratory investigations. For this purpose, the study of the introduction of motifs used in doll clothes, materials and manufacturing methods, as well as determining the approximate age of a doll sample from this museum was studied. The studied doll is the 150-year-old "Furash" doll from Nayin and Ardakan regions. To achieve the goal, historical and comparative studies of the doll were done. Historical studies and a comparative comparison of the doll with the sample of the Qajar era witness, as well as technical investigations on other materials of the work, as well as the identification of its fabric and motifs, and the volume of the doll's head and its surface painting, prove that the work in question belongs to the Qajar period. The parts of the work, including the fabrics used in the clothes, motifs and volume creation of the doll's head and its surface painting, were compared with the examples of the Qajar period. The results showed that the desired marionette is a simple type that the artist made from the traditional wood pulp in the Qajar period along with different fabrics, some of which were among the imported goods of the Qajar period.

Mehdi Razani, Masoud Bater,
Volume 7, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract

Documentation and recording of cultural and historical artifacts are among the most critical stages in their conservation and restoration. However, this essential aspect is often overlooked by conservators, museums, and collectors. This article aims to familiarize students and practitioners with the fundamental principles of documenting historical ceramics. Unlike resources that focus on teaching photography, lighting, or technical drawing, this work emphasizes practical and essential guidelines for the accurate documentation of ceramic objects during the conservation and restoration process. In the documentation of ceramics, the importance of recording information as the first step in conservation and restoration is emphasized. This process includes documenting the object's current condition, recording interventions performed, and providing a comprehensive report for future research and operational use. Additionally, this study presents a background on the development of documentation in the field of conservation, illustrating how this process has evolved into a global standard. Another section of this research examines the stages and details of documentation, including the recording of physical, chemical, and pathological characteristics of artifacts. This process assists conservators and restorers in performing more effective and precise work in their projects. Moreover, the documents produced during documentation serve as reliable and credible evidence, enabling more accurate reconstruction of the object's history, analysis of manufacturing techniques, and technologies used in the production of historical artifacts. These records can also serve as a foundation for future research in the understanding and preservation of cultural heritage.  This article seeks to enhance the knowledge and skills of documentation so that professionals can prepare comprehensive, accurate, and scientific reports for the future while carrying out restoration operations. The ultimate goal is to establish a foundation for sustainable conservation and valuable research in the field of cultural heritage. 

Hamid Fadaei,
Volume 7, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract

Although documentation in the field of cultural heritage plays a pivotal role in the preservation, management, and transmission of knowledge related to tangible and intangible assets, such processes, as a key tool for identifying, evaluating, and recording various cultural and historical features and values, have received limited attention in various international instruments (such as charters, conventions, regulations, and recommendations). The lack of systematic documentation and recording of cultural heritage and the loss of data not only lead to irreparable damage to cultural heritage knowledge but also create challenges for conservation, restoration, and education processes. Therefore, this article seeks to clarify the position of cultural heritage documentation in the aforementioned instruments and to examine its tools and methods. However, the utilization of these frameworks at the national and local levels often faces challenges, including the absence of localized execution standards, a shortage of expertise in employing advanced technologies, and insufficient financial and educational resources. Methodologically, this article is based on a systematic analysis of international instruments related to cultural heritage. By employing a qualitative content analysis approach, it examines the position and emphasis of documentation within these instruments, along with its methods and tools. For greater accuracy, a correlation between key concepts and theoretical frameworks associated with cultural heritage conservation was established. The research findings indicate that, in general, international instruments emphasize the importance and necessity of documentation as a fundamental pillar for the proper preservation and management of cultural heritage. Such efforts enhance transparency in conservation activities and facilitate international cooperation, particularly in cases where cultural properties are threatened by natural or human factors. Some of these instruments highlight documentation as an integral part of education and research in the field of cultural heritage, considering it a means to transfer knowledge and experiences to future generations. This process, by providing comprehensive and accurate information, plays a vital role in preserving the authenticity, values, and sustainability of cultural properties at a global level and contributes to decision-making and policymaking related to cultural heritage.

Mohammad Reza Alikhah, Anisa Shiri , Shahrazad Amin Shirazi , Mohammad Hossein Boroumand,
Volume 7, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract

Restoration of historical monuments relies heavily on comprehensive documentation conducted both before and after conservation and restoration processes. This study focused on documenting the cleaning process of Iran's Salt Men through the integration of various photographic techniques and specialized focus stacking software. Specifically, it examined the documentation of Salt Man, No. 1, housed in the National Museum of Iran by utilizing a combination of focus stacking and panorama techniques. The project aimed to produce high-resolution images from 5 different angles, capturing the complete depth of field before and after cleaning. The largest image generated in this project boasted a pixel density of 649.4 megapixels, showcasing the frontal view of the artifact. Several challenges arose during the project. The presence of hair on the head and face of Salt Man, No. 1, posed difficulties in photo alignment. Additionally, documenting the gold earrings using macrography presented another set of challenges. It is important to note that the documentation, conservation, and restoration of the artifact were carried out simultaneously. Consequently, close coordination with other members of the conservation and restoration team was crucial and meticulous recording of lighting angles, camera settings, and photometry were prioritized. Detailed documentation was carefully recorded both before and after the cleaning process, taking special care to note the conditions during photography and ensuring accurate color, light, and texture matching. This comprehensive approach established a robust foundation for artifact's future scientific monitoring.

Alireza Amiri Baghbadorani , Leyli Nemani Khiyavi, Mehdi Razani,
Volume 7, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract

Reliefs and Inscriptions are among the most important historical documents, serving as carriers of diverse narratives, such as wars, victories, conquests, notable events, or memorials. These artifacts provide a direct and transparent expression of a certain historical moment. Over time, understanding the durability of stone, humans have recorded events on this precious material using various techniques. This practice began with primitive depictions on natural rocks; and evolved into elaborate carvings designed to document contemporary events. Early inscriptions, often executed on natural rocks, using scripts such as cuneiform; gradually along with development of skills and tools, they developed into detailed and artistic engravings, taking the form of decorative inscriptions or reliefs. This article presents a new transcription of the stone on the portal of the Hasan Pādshāh Mosque and School Complex, located in the central district of Tabriz, East Azerbaijan province, in Sahib-al-Amar Square, within the UNESCO-listed Tabriz Covered Bazaar. The inscription, carved into a stone surface dating back to the late 8th century A.H., features Thuluth script and has suffered damage due to various factors over time. The most important questions of the research are: What is the content of the inscription on the portal of Hasan Padshah Complex, and what information does it convey? What changes have occurred to the inscription over time? How can the transcription of the inscription be conducted to retrieve the maximum amount of information?  To address these questions, historical and archeological studies, were complemented by fieldwork, and advanced documentation methods, including photogrammetry and digital design of the inscription text. Following these steps, a re-reading of the inscription text, along with an analysis of the changes it has undergone over time, was achieved.


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